Deadline: 06-Mar-2026

The 2026 GHG-SMART programme offers maritime professionals from least developed countries (LDCs) and small island developing states (SIDS) a year-long capacity-building initiative on maritime decarbonization. Participants gain practical training, scholarships for a Master’s in Maritime Energy Management, and support to develop national action plans for low-carbon shipping and port operations.

Overview

The GHG-SMART (Sustainable Maritime Transport Training) programme, implemented by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and funded by the Republic of Korea, aims to strengthen global capacity to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the maritime sector. The initiative supports LDCs and SIDS in implementing the IMO 2023 Strategy on Reduction of GHG Emissions from Ships through tailored training, practical experience, and sustainable national action planning.

Programme Objectives

Participants will:

• Address maritime decarbonization challenges in SIDS and LDCs

• Receive needs-based, country-specific training

• Gain hands-on experience through industry visits in the Republic of Korea

• Strengthen post-training engagement via an alumni network

• Develop Trainee Structured Training Plans to ensure long-term sustainability

• Draft National Action Plans for maritime decarbonization

• Identify country-specific training needs to reduce GHG emissions in port and hinterland transport

• Secure financing for maritime decarbonization projects

• Develop roadmaps for low-carbon shipping and ports

• Promote gender diversity within the maritime sector

Programme Highlights

• One-week practical training in the Republic of Korea: Participants gain real-world insights into decarbonization practices

• Master of Science scholarships: Outstanding trainees may pursue an MSc in Maritime Energy Management at World Maritime University, Malmö, Sweden, covering tuition, accommodation, living expenses, and travel

• Global alumni network: Ensures continued engagement and knowledge transfer

• Country-specific impact: Trainees implement actionable solutions and strengthen national maritime energy policies

Eligibility and Nomination

• Open to maritime professionals from LDCs and SIDS

• Governments are invited to nominate qualified candidates

• Candidates should have relevant maritime sector experience and a commitment to contributing to low-carbon shipping strategies in their home countries

Past Impact

• Over 80 maritime professionals trained from nearly 50 SIDS and LDCs

• Strengthened national and regional capacity to tackle GHG emissions

• Alumni actively involved in national maritime decarbonization initiatives

Expected Outcomes

By the end of the programme, participating countries and trainees are expected to:

• Enhance capacity to design National Action Plans for maritime decarbonization

• Mobilize financing for low-carbon shipping and port projects

• Develop roadmaps for sustainable maritime transport

• Promote inclusive growth and gender diversity within the maritime sector

• Translate knowledge and practical skills into long-term national benefits

Tips for Nominees and Governments

• Nominate candidates with relevant maritime sector experience and commitment to decarbonization

• Ensure nominees are prepared to engage in both practical and academic training

• Encourage trainees to develop structured national action plans and sustainability strategies

• Leverage the programme to strengthen national maritime policy and low-carbon initiatives

FAQs

1. Who can participate in the GHG-SMART programme?
   Maritime professionals from least developed countries (LDCs) and small island developing states (SIDS) nominated by their governments.

2. What is the duration of the programme?
   One year, including practical training in the Republic of Korea and structured national engagement.

3. Are scholarships available?
   Yes, outstanding trainees can receive a full scholarship for an MSc in Maritime Energy Management at World Maritime University, Malmö, Sweden.

4. What practical training is included?
   A one-week industry visit in the Republic of Korea to gain hands-on experience in maritime decarbonization practices.

5. What are the main objectives?
   To enhance capacity for maritime decarbonization, develop national action plans, mobilize financing, implement low-carbon solutions, and promote gender diversity.

6. How does the programme ensure long-term impact?
   Through structured training plans, alumni networks, and support in drafting actionable National Action Plans for maritime decarbonization.

7. How can governments nominate candidates?
   Governments of LDCs and SIDS submit nominations of qualified maritime professionals to the IMO following official programme guidelines.

Conclusion

The GHG-SMART 2026 programme equips maritime professionals from LDCs and SIDS with practical skills, strategic knowledge, and global networks to implement low-carbon solutions. By combining training, scholarships, and national action planning, the initiative strengthens global capacity for maritime decarbonization while promoting sustainable, inclusive growth in the sector.

For more information, visit IMO.